EXHIBIT 23.1 CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-20905) pertaining to the All * AmerUs Savings and Retirement Plan of AmerUs Group Co. of our report dated May 2, 2005, with respect to the financial statements and schedule of the All * AmerUs Savings and Retirement Plan included in this Annual Report (Form 11-K) for the year ended December 31, 2004. /s/ Ernst & Young LLP Des Moines, Iowa June 28, 2005